A former Katlehong Engineering School of Specialisation (KESOS) learner, Msizi Motsamai, is preparing to represent both his school and South Africa after being awarded an Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) Government of India Scholarship.

Msizi, who completed matric at KESOS in 2025, will study towards a Bachelor of Arts in Multimedia and Mass Communication at the University of Mumbai during the 2026/27 academic year.

The scholarship, awarded through the India-Africa Maitri Scholarship Scheme, covers tuition fees, accommodation and provides a monthly stipend. Students are, however, required to cover their initial expenses upon arrival in India until the stipend is processed.

While many of his classmates enrolled at university immediately after matric, Motsamai made the difficult decision to delay his studies and improve his marks in two subjects.

“It wasn’t easy watching my friends move ahead while I stayed behind to fix what I felt was unfinished,” he said.

Despite questions from others about his decision, he remained focused on improving his results and refused to give up on his dreams.

His determination paid off when he discovered the ICCR scholarship opportunity and submitted his application.

Motsamai received admission offers from both the University of Mangalore and the University of Mumbai.
After careful consideration, he chose the University of Mumbai.

“I chose the University of Mumbai because of its strong reputation in media, communication and the arts. Mumbai is also the heart of India’s media and film industry, so I felt it would give me the best exposure for my field,” he said.

Motsamai said his decision to study Multimedia and Mass Communication was inspired by his passion for telling meaningful stories.

“ I want to learn how to use media to tell African stories, South African stories and KESOS stories to the world. Media shapes how people see us, and I want to be part of the generation that puts South Africa on the global map through journalism, content creation and multimedia,” he said.

Receiving the scholarship is about much more than personal achievement to him.

“It feels surreal, and it feels like a huge responsibility. From representing KESOS at the SoS Festival to now representing the school and South Africa in Mumbai, India, it’s a full-circle moment. I’m proud. I’m grateful and I know I’m carrying more than just my own dreams. I’m carrying the name of KESOS, my teachers, my family and my country. I don’t take that lightly.”

Motsamai credited KESOS and its teachers for helping him build the confidence and resilience that made the opportunity possible.

“KESOS gave me more than just academics. It gave me discipline, resilience and belief in myself. Even when I decided not to go to varsity immediately after matric so that I could improve two subjects, my teachers supported me. They reminded me that patience pays off and that it’s okay to take a different path. Without that foundation, I don’t think I would have had the courage to apply for a scholarship abroad or believe that a kid from Katlehong could study in India.”

Motsamai encouraged current learners never to underestimate themselves or compare their journeys with others.

“Work hard. Study. Education can open doors you didn’t even know existed. Doors to India. Doors to the world. Don’t compare your journey to anyone else’s. Upgrade if you must. Wait if you must. Apply if you must, but never doubt yourself. If a kid from Katlehong can get this opportunity, then so can you.”